Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area
Overview
The Minnesota Valley State Recreation was created in 1994 when several existing trails, and the land around them, were combined. Today, it protects 5,490 acres of diverse plant and wildlife communities. It also offers equally diverse recreation like hiking, biking, bird watching, horseback riding, snowmobiling and more. Look for evidence of the area’s past during your visit. Ten thousand years ago, Glacial River Warren carved the Minnesota River Valley. It then retreated, leaving behind this broad valley and a much smaller stream.
- Trails
- 7
- Viewpoints
- 4
- Activities
- 0
- POIs
- 21
Opening Hours
08:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Emergency SOS
Amenities Available
- Paved Parking Lots
Designated vehicle parking areas with clearly marked spaces and ADA-accessible spots mandated by federal law. Most parks offer free or low-cost daily parking passes.
- Restrooms / Flush Toilets
Modern restroom facilities with running water and proper sanitation. Subject to seasonal closures in northern states during winter months.
- Drinking Water Fountains
Potable water stations distributed throughout the park, tested regularly for safety to ensure clean water access for all visitors.
- Picnic Areas & Shelters
Covered pavilions equipped with tables and built-in grills. Shelters are often reservable for group events and birthday parties.
- Hiking & Nature Trails
Marked paths ranging from easy, paved walks to rugged backcountry routes, blazed with color-coded markers and difficulty ratings.
- Historic Site
- Trailer Access
- Carry in Access
Required Permits
VEHICLE PERMITSRequired
Permit required for the Lawrence Unit; purchase at trail center kiosk.
Alerts & Advisories
Stay informed before heading out
Safety Tips
Safety Advisory
- The Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area currently has dangerous trail conditions due to riverbank erosion.
- A major section of the Minnesota Valley State Trail is fully closed between Highway 9 in Jordan and 145th Street where the path collapsed into the river, while open areas just south of Highway 9 are severely narrowed and unstable.
Popular/Nearby Trails
Mazomani Trail (Multi-use Trails - Unpaved)
Johnson Slough/Flood’s Rd/ State Trail Access (Multi-use Trails - Unpaved)
Minnesota Valley State Trail (Multi-use Unpaved)
Minnesota Valley State Trail (Paved)
Multi-use Trails - Unpaved
Minnesota River Bluffs LRT Regional Trail
Minnesota Valley State Trail (Paved)
Nearby Viewpoints
Historic Site (Jabs Farm)
Historic Site
1.0 mi
Historic Site (Strait House)
Monument / Memorial
6.0 mi
Equestrian Campground
Horseback Riding
7.5 mi
Picnic Area
7.5 mi
Nearby Points of Interest
Reviews & Ratings
Community Photos
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours of Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area?
Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area is open every day from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
What is Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area?
The Minnesota Valley State Recreation was created in 1994 when several existing trails, and the land around them, were combined. Today, it protects 5,490 acres of diverse plant and wildlife communities.
Where is Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area located?
Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area is located in Jordan, Minnesota, United States.
How many trails are there at Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area?
Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area has 7 mapped trails covering 52.5 miles in total. The longest is Minnesota Valley State Trail (Multi-use Unpaved) at 18.8 miles.
What is there to see at Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area?
Places to see at Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area include Equestrian Campground, Historic Site (Jabs Farm), Historic Site (Strait House), Trail Center and Trailer Access.
What facilities are available at Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area?
Facilities at Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area include Carry in Access, Drinking Water Fountains, Hiking & Nature Trails, Historic Site, Paved Parking Lots, Picnic Areas & Shelters, Restrooms / Flush Toilets and Trailer Access.
Is there parking at Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area?
Yes, Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area has parking (Paved Parking Lots).
Are there restrooms at Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area?
Yes, Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area has restrooms (Restrooms / Flush Toilets).
How can I contact Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area?
You can contact Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area by phone at 8886466367.
What safety tips should visitors to Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area know?
The Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area currently has dangerous trail conditions due to riverbank erosion. A major section of the Minnesota Valley State Trail is fully closed between Highway 9 in Jordan and 145th Street where the path collapsed into the river, while open areas just south of Highway 9 are severely narrowed and unstable. Additionally, visitors should prepare for seasonal flood hazards within the river floodplain
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